by K.D.

Created on: January 17, 2007   Last Updated: May 13, 2008

It's no secret that maintaining a happy and healthy relationship in today's society has become a difficult thing to achieve. If you have been with your partner for a long time, you may have noticed that the romantic aspects of the relationship have grown a bit stale. While sometimes this might be a sign of deeper issues, for the most part it is simply an indication that your relationship is due for a tune up! The following strategies might help to fan the embers of love back into the raging flame it once was at the beginning:

1. Surprise him or her! Do something different. If you normally stay home and watch movies on weekends, make arrangements to attend a film festival together or suggest making your own "home movie". Most long term relationships grow stale because routine has taken over. While some routines are necessary if you have children or strict schedules to follow, there is always something that can be adjusted to include a bit more excitement. Re-evaluate the routines established in your relationship and see where you might be able to fit in some unexpected fun.

2. Sign up for an extra curricular activity. Do some research and investigate local agencies that offer couple's dance classes or even a pottery or cooking class. As you learn something new together, you just might discover something new about yourselves and each other in the process.

3. Create something special. Rather than buy in to the commercial ideals of romance that advocate sending flowers or other generic romantic gestures, take the time to make something meaningful for your partner. This could be something as simple as a homemade "just because" card or as complex as writing an original poem or painting an original picture. It really is, after all, the thought that counts!

4. Make a scrapbook together. When you both have free time together, break out the old photo albums and other memorabilia then work together to arrange it into a themed scrapbook. This serves to reminisce the good times while making beautiful new memories in the process.

5. Tell your partner how much you love and appreciate them. Whether verbally or in writing, find a way to express your feelings to your partner. Though they may already know these things, it is always nice to be reassured that the love and appreciation is still there.

6. Share your dreams with each other. Make plans for the future and make sure to let your partner know how they fit into your vision of what is to come.

7. Explore new sexual adventures

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